Virtual Reality | 2024
Created by_ Eran May-Raz
Based on_ The 1984 film The NeverEnding Story, which is itself based on the novel of the same name by Michael Ende.
The First Gate VR Trailer
Concept_
Based on the film The Neverending Story, this VR homage puts you face to face with the terrifying magical Sphinx, which can sense insecurity and will destroy all who is unworthy. Do you think you have what it takes to pass safely?
Creative process_
The Neverending Story is a fantasy film made in 1984, directed by Wolfgang Petersen. As a kid I used to watch this film on repeat. I always cried my heart out when Artax died, and then filled again with joy and wonder as the film reached its conclusion. But one scene always stood out for me and that's the Sphinx gate scene. As a kid I always wondered how I would react if I had to face this test of self confidence. Would I pass? or would I let my doubts take over?
I started working on this project back in 2019, when I was taking my first steps in Unreal Engine. Took me about two weeks to build this but I never fully finished it.
But this year, as the film marks its 40th birthday, I felt this could be the perfect way to honor and celebrate this wonderful film.
Gameplay footage
Notes_
The experience was designed for Quest PC (connecting the Quest to a computer via Meta Quest Link) and it runs on Windows.
Download the game here.
*This is a fan art project, I do not own the rights of the film or the book it was based on, by Michael Ende.
** The music in the trailer is taken from the original soundtrack, The Three Magic Gates by Klaus Doldinger.
*** The music and voice over in the VR homage are taken from the original film. The soundtracks used are:
Fantasia and The Three Magic Gates by Klaus Doldinger.
(C) 1984 WEA International Inc. A Warner Communications Company.